21 November 2014
Dame Susan Devoy Launches Diversity Programme
The importance of recognising the fast changing population and the impact of this upon the workforce in New Zealand
companies has been recognised by a new programme being offered by NZIM in 2015. At the recent launch of the programme
the Race Relations Commissioner, Dame Susan Devoy, acknowledged this commitment from NZIM and challenged those attending
to recognise that company policies and values needed to address the many layers of diversity that these changes bring.
Dame Susan outlined the overwhelming evidence that organisations only operate at full effectiveness when they are as
diverse as their customer base and she shared some hard hitting stories about the situation that faces many employees
from ethnic backgrounds which are not European. She encouraged the audience to have the conversations which would enable
differences to be discussed and thereby create positive opportunities in the workforce for all – employees and
customers.
Economic growth and harmonious workplace relationships are key to a high performing, successful company and Dame Susan
applauded the efforts being made by some companies to recognise diversity but suggested there is a considerable journey
ahead. The new course will enable participants to consider the diverse talents of their teams while also learning more
about the different ‘ways of doing’ of their employees.
The new Prime Minister’s Diversity Leader Award in the 2014 Deloitte Top 2000 further illustrates the importance and
significance being given to this aspect of company performance.
ENDS